Get involved

Join thousands of Canadians to protect our aquatic ecosystems against shoreline litter with the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup: the largest conservation-based cleanup program in the country. Cleanups are organized by volunteers for volunteers.

There are two ways to make a difference

1. Become a site coordinator

Lead and organize your own shoreline cleanup, a rewarding and empowering leadership opportunity. Whether you are a community member, organization, corporate group, Guide or Scout team, student or teacher, we have the resources to help you organize your event. Check out our Site Coordinator Guide to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

Site Coordinators need to be 19+.

Under 19? You can still be a cleanup hero. You'll just need a responsible adult to register the cleanup and attend with you on the day.

Single use plastics, such as bottles, grocery bags and food wrappers are found on shorelines across Canada. Prevent them from making their way into our aquatic ecosystems by reducing your plastic use, and then make a switch to plastic free alternatives.

3. Start a recycling program at your school or workplace

Having easy access to a recycling drop off for batteries, light bulbs, cell phones and other electronics, makes recycling easier. Create your own drop-off centre or space in your school or office to ensure these items go to the proper recycling facilities, and stay off our shorelines.

4. Bring the Shoreline Cleanup into the classroom

Are you an elementary school teacher? Continue the learning experience with our free curriculum guides.

5. Butt out

Cigarette butts are the most common type of litter across the globe. Butts can leach harmful toxins into the environment and animals can mistake them for food. If you smoke outside, use a portable ashtray or a small container that can hold your cigarette butts until you can dispose of them properly.

6. Choose eco-friendly products

What goes down our drains can make its way to our ecosystems. Some toothpastes, soaps and facial cleansers can even contain microbeads, tiny plastic beads that cannot be completely filtered out by wastewater treatment plants. Choosing environmentally friendly cleaning products and detergents can help keep our waters free of harmful chemicals. Check product ingredients before purchasing or learn to make your own products.

7. Plan a follow-up cleanup event

Monthly cleanups are a great way to ensure that shorelines and waterways stay clean year-round. Organize a follow-up cleanup event at the same site or pick a brand new site. Bring a friend who has never taken part!